Area guide: Braamfontein
Deciding where to buy a home can be tricky, but some things to keep in mind are the available amenities, accessibility and of course the security of the neighbourhood. Braamfontein is one of the best examples, perhaps in South Africa, of a neighbourhood reinvigorated.
It’s been proven time and time again that uplifting a neighbourhood, which caters for students and young professionals alike, is a great way to breathe new life into old, underutilised neighbourhoods. Braamfontein is without a doubt a prime example of that, and if anything, the development at 44 Stanley is the example that should be followed. For those looking to buy a property in Braamfontein, this is undoubtedly where the search should start.
Once a rundown area, Braamfontein is now a chic neighbourhood sought-after by young professionals who like the lifestyle and also want to live closer to where they work. The suburb’s rejuvenation follows a multimillion rand investment from the local government and private sector.
Through the City Improvement District managed by the Braamfontein Management District, the area provides security and maintenance through uniformed security guards, parking attendants, CCTV cameras and extensive greening initiatives.
There are numerous things to see and do in “Braam” as it’s referred to by locals, and they include the Nelson Mandela Bridge, the Constitution Hill complex, the Wits Planetarium and many other creative spaces. One of these is 70 Juta, where visitors can enjoy avant-garde interior design, art, fashion and even film studios.
Here’s a short list of where you should eat and what to explore in Braamfontein.
Restaurants:
- Eighty Six Public Pizzeria: for a relaxed dining experience
- Father Coffee: for great coffee all day
- Galata Bakery and Coffee: for light meals and baked Turkish delicacies
- Post, Breakfast, Lunch: for amazing breakfasts
- The Orbit Jazz Club and Bistro: for live music and good food
- WAM Cafe: for delicious desserts
Things to do:
- Enjoy the amazing Joburg skyline at Randlords
- The Origins Centre
- The Market Theatre
- Neighbourgoods Market on Saturdays
- The Nelson Mandela Bridge
- The Joburg Theatre
- Wits Art Museum
Whether you’re buying a property, looking to rent or simply investigating great areas in Johannesburg, Braamfontein is well worth your time!
